Forgotten Ex-Man Utd Starlet in Demand as Clubs Queue Up After Impressive Trial with Championship Club

Brandon Williams Drawing Fresh Attention After Hull City Trial

Brandon Williams, once hailed as one of Manchester United’s most promising academy graduates, appears to be on the cusp of reigniting his career after a promising trial with Hull City. The 24-year-old left-back, who was released by United in 2024, is now attracting serious interest from Championship clubs and teams abroad. For a player once seen as a long-term fixture at Old Trafford, this could mark the beginning of a long-awaited career revival.

WHAT HAPPENED TO BRANDON WILLIAMS?

Williams broke into the Manchester United first team under Ole Gunnar Solskjær during the 2019-20 season, making a strong impression with his energy, aggression, and versatility on the left flank. At just 19 years old, the future looked bright. But like many young players who explode onto the scene early, his career trajectory soon flattened.

After subsequent loan spells at Norwich City and Ipswich Town, Williams struggled to maintain the momentum from his debut season. Injuries and off-field issues hampered his development. By the summer of 2024, Manchester United chose not to renew his contract, making him a free agent.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Hull City v Sunderland – Pre-Season Friendly

What initially looked like a glittering career hit a roadblock. But recent developments suggest there’s still fuel in the tank. Williams recently joined Hull City on trial, and his performances in training and pre-season sessions have impressed head coach Sergej Jakirovic and the rest of the coaching staff.

According to a report in the Daily Mail, Hull are now weighing up offering Williams a permanent deal. The interest, however, isn’t limited to East Yorkshire. Several other Championship sides and some clubs from mainland Europe are reportedly tracking his progress.

This renewed interest is not only a testament to Williams’ raw ability but also to his visible efforts to overcome personal setbacks and recommit himself to professional football.

TELL ME MORE: OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

Brandon Williams has had to confront serious off-field challenges. Earlier this year, he was handed a 14-month suspended prison sentence and ordered to complete community service following a high-speed car crash. It was a low moment for the defender—one that could have signaled the end of a promising career.

But rather than shy away, Williams has spoken candidly about the difficulties he’s faced. He has acknowledged past mistakes and is reportedly working hard—both physically and mentally—to rebuild his career.

Hull City boss Sergej Jakirovic addressed the player’s recent troubles when speaking about the club’s decision to offer him a trial:

“I like to help people because everyone deserves a second chance in life. I spoke with him very honestly, and I explained to him what I expect from him. We will be very careful, very, very slow. We have time, so we will try to help him. I think the quality is there because he was on a high level at Man United, so his quality is there. We need him to bring good fitness, and then we will make a decision.”

POTENTIAL DESTINATIONS

While Hull City appear to be the frontrunners, the presence of other suitors complicates the picture. Several unnamed Championship clubs are believed to be considering moves for Williams, and there has even been mention of interest from clubs in Belgium and the Netherlands.

What makes Williams an intriguing target is his versatility. While he’s predominantly a left-back, he can comfortably operate on the right side of defense, and has experience in midfield as well. For Championship sides operating with tight budgets, his experience in the Premier League and flexibility make him a potential bargain.

A MAN ON A MISSION

For Williams, this is more than just a trial—it’s a second chance at a career that once promised so much. He appears to understand what’s at stake. Those close to the player say he’s fully focused, fitter than he’s been in years, and determined to silence doubters.

What’s most encouraging for potential suitors is the fact that Williams is still only 24. In footballing terms, he has time on his side. If he can stay injury-free and maintain discipline off the pitch, there’s little reason he can’t return to the levels that earned him a spot in Manchester United’s starting XI in the first place.

WHAT NEXT FOR BRANDON WILLIAMS?

Hull City v Sunderland – Pre-Season Friendly

The Championship season kicks off this weekend, and clubs are looking to finalise their squads. Hull City will have to make a quick decision if they want to beat the competition. Jakirovic’s recent comments suggest they’re not rushing into anything—but interest is mounting.

Williams himself is eager to get going. Sources close to the player say he’s keen to stay in England, where he can be closer to his support network and play in a league he understands well.

One thing is clear: the football world hasn’t given up on Brandon Williams. And judging by his recent performances and public statements, neither has he.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The story of Brandon Williams is one of promise, setbacks, and potential redemption. It’s a narrative that resonates in football, where careers can pivot dramatically based on form, fitness, and personal decisions. While the next chapter is still unwritten, the early signs suggest that Williams is not done yet.

For Hull City—or any club that takes a chance on him—he could prove to be one of the most intriguing comeback stories of the season.

As always in football, time will tell. But for now, Brandon Williams is very much a player worth watching.